Transparent ticket system drives innovation

For Uhlmann Pac-Systeme, a global leader in supplying pharmaceutical packaging systems, the award highlights the company’s commitment to its innovation-driven corporate philosophy. The jury's evaluation particularly stressed that in 2023, 80 percent of all improvement suggestions were implemented at the Laupheim-based company, thanks to a transparent ticket system for invention reports and continuous improvement processes. “In the pharmaceutical industry, where stringent regulations and systemically relevant processes dominate, innovation and its successful implementation are essential for ensuring a reliable supply of medicines. This award is both a recognition of our efforts and a motivator to continue pursuing new ideas and approaches,” said Cristian Reiter, Chief Technology Officer at Uhlmann Pac-Systeme.

Award based on rigorous scientific evaluation

The TOP 100 Award is based on a rigorous scientific evaluation process, which assesses companies’ innovation capabilities across more than 100 criteria within five categories: innovation-driven leadership, innovation culture, innovative processes and organization, external orientation and openness, and innovation success. This structured approach ensures the award identifies companies where innovation is a strategic, well-managed process rather than the result of chance. “Innovation means taking action rather than merely reacting. It’s about shaping the future proactively instead of hoping that nothing changes,” explained innovation researcher Prof. Dr. Nikolaus Franke, who leads the evaluation process.

Award ceremony in Mainz

The official award ceremony will take place on June 25, 2025, at the Rheingoldhalle in Mainz during the German SME Summit. Renowned German TV presenter and science journalist Ranga Yogeshwar will host the event.